UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon welcomed Turkmenistan's stated intention to develop a truly democratic society in which the country's progress is measured by the degree of rights and freedoms that each person can enjoy.

The Secretary-General sent a message to Turkmen President Gurbangulu Berdimuhammedov to mark the 20th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Independence, the local media reported.

"While the modern nation first stayed within the boundaries of Russia and then the Soviet Union, in 1991, you made the choice to become a sovereign nation. Since then, Turkmenistan has passed many milestones. Next year, we will reach another: the twentieth anniversary of your country's accession to the United Nations," the message published by the UN reads.

Ki-moon said over these nearly two decades, Turkmenistan has become an important and valued Member State.

"UN agencies, programmes and funds are actively working in the country. Since 2007, Turkmenistan has hosted the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia. I was impressed by the Centre's activities as well as those of the Country Team when I visited Turkmenistan last year, "he said.

Ki-moon said Turkmenistan's decision to adopt the status of permanent neutrality, which was formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 1995, signalled the country's intent to pursue partnership across borders, and to reject confrontation and military power as part of its foreign policy .

"This has contributed to the promotion of peace and stability in Central Asia. Turkmenistan's support for the stabilization of neighbouring Afghanistan is also important. In addition, Turkmenistan promotes initiatives in fields such as energy security, disarmament and the environment, which can further contribute to regional and international cooperation, "the message reads.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon welcomed Turkmenistan's stated intention to develop a truly democratic society in which the country's progress is measured by the degree of rights and freedoms that each person can enjoy